Creagan Na Mara

Creagan Na Mara suits couples and families of up to four looking for a base on the Isle of North Uist. The cottage is thatched and recently built using stone from its original predecessor, positioned on a peninsula overlooking Loch Blashival. Ground-floor layout means everything is accessible on one level: a living space with woodburner and television, a dining area, and a kitchen equipped for cooking properly. One bedroom has a kingsize bed, the other two singles; there is one bathroom with both bath and shower. Essentials like electricity, heating, wi-fi, bed linen and towels are included, and logs for the burner come with the property.

What makes this location distinctive is the wildlife. Otters and seals are regular visitors to the loch; sea eagles, golden eagles, corncrakes and hen harriers inhabit the island. The RSPB reserve at Balranald is a short drive away. Beyond birdwatching, the Uists offer hill walks where red deer and golden eagles appear, white sand beaches, and the flower-covered machair. Whales and basking sharks arrive in summer months. The cottage has parking for two cars and an enclosed garden. Lochmaddy, a fishing port, lies within walking distance. No smoking is permitted.